Parkinson's Disease (The Shaking Palsy) may be one of the most baffling and complex of the Neurological disorders. Its cause remains a mystery but research in this area is active, with new and intriguing findings constantly being reported.

Parkinson’s disease belongs to a group of condition called motor system disorders. Parkinson’s and related disordersare the result of the Loss of Dopamine producing brain cells. Dopamine is a chemical messenger responsible for transmitting signals within the brain. Parkinson’s disease occurs when certain nerve cells, or neurons, die or become impaired. Normally, these neurons produce dopamine. Loss of dopamine causes the nerve cells to fire out of control, leaving patients unable to direct or control their movement in a normal manner.

 

The TETRAD Symptoms of Parkinson’s are:

 

1) Tremor or Trembling in Hands, Arms, Legs, Jaw and Face; 
2) Rigidity or Stiffness of the Limbs and Trunk;
3) Bradykinesia or Slowness of Movement and
4) Postural Instability or Impaired balance and co- ordination.

 

Patients may also have difficulty in walking, talking, or completing other simple tasks. The disease is both Chronic, meaning it persists over a long period of time, and Progressive, meaning its symptoms grow worse over time. It is not contagious nor is it usually inherited - that is, it does not pass directly from one family member or generation to the next. Early symptoms are subtle and occur gradually.

 

Though various Western Medicines provide relief, no drug can stop the progression of the disease. Parkinson’s Disease known in Ayurveda as ‘Kampa Vata’ is a neurological disorder-affecting people over 65 years. Ayurvedic treatment for this condition centers on the treatment of Vata disturbance. Abhyanga Snehanam (Oleation) and Swedam (Fomentation) form the basis of the constitutional treatment. Nasyam (Nasal Insufflation), Sirovasti (Application of oil over the head) Shiro Dhara(Pouring of oil on the hair bearing area on the head),Vasthi (enemas) and Brumhana, Vata hara Chikitsa are indicated.

 

A Vata pacifying diet and proper dietary habit are essential for long-term success. Additional Vata pacifying regimens including daily oil massage and Sensory Therapies complete the treatment.

 

Meditation, Yogic practices, Pranayama, the breathing exercises are to be done on a regular and daily basis to overcome the stress and the disease. One should follow Achara Rasayana (The art of being the best of Soul) like being Sathwik, following elders advise, keeping and controlling the hard feelings, controlling the mental urges etc.